The Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust is introducing a way to help people biking on local Ngā Haerenga Great Rides make a donation as a ‘thank you’ for using the 240km of cycle trail in the region.
Trust Chair, Gillian Wratt said, “the Trust is incredibly grateful to the financial support from both Councils, Central government, businesses, and others to construct and maintain the trails, but funding is tight.
Trustees and volunteers help our contracted trail management team to provide a quality riding experience. To keep the trails in top condition, improvements and maintenance are necessary. Some sections are 15 years old and with high use – the Great Taste Trail had 400,000 riders past our counters last year – the trail wears out.”
The Trust has always encouraged people to make a donation towards the trails and this summer has made it easier for riders, with the installation of two credit card devices.
Wratt said, “We chose to install these at the Tahuna Beach Camp Holiday Park and Mapua Ferry and initial feedback is very positive. Riders recognise the value of having two Great Rides in our region; the Great Taste Trail – 200km – one of the longest cycle-trail loop rides in New Zealand and the Coppermine Trail 40km – one of the longest single-track descents in New Zealand. So keep your eyes open for the donation devices and help us keep the trails in tip top condition.”
“And we have a Givealitte page for those who like to donate that way, or if people want to donate towards a specific project we invite them to get in touch. We are also keen to hear from anyone who benefits from our trails and is interested in inviting us to set up a device at their business”
Bernie, co-owner of The Gentle Cycling Company is pleased that the devices have been introduced and says, “We operate our business alongside the Tāhuna beach holiday park and are thrilled to have these wonderful trail treasures on our back door. Over summer we will see well in excess of 2,500 visitors camping – many of whom will ride on the Great Taste and Coppermine Trails.”
Visitors love the trails but it’s always a bit tricky to ask people to pay more when they have already paid for their trip or bike hire. So this way it will be easier for our clients to make a donation.”
According to a recent report, the Great Taste Trail is estimated to contribute around $34m a year directly to the local economy. This money goes to our businesses, employees and service industries and the credit card devices are a way that local users and visitors can help make our region more vibrant.
